Transfer wheel and method for transferring a strip to a tire building drum

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a transfer wheel, a transfer device and a method for transferring a strip, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum, wherein the transfer wheel defines a retaining area that is divided into a first end section for retaining the leading end, a second end section for retaining the trailing end and a main section for supporting the strip body. The transfer wheel has a first mounting member that defines first mounting positions for receiving a first group of retaining segments at the first end section, wherein the first group of retaining segments includes first body retaining segments for retaining the strip body and a first end retaining segment for retaining the leading end, wherein the first mounting member is arranged for interchangeably receiving one first body retaining segment or the first end retaining segment in each first mounting position.

BACKGROUND

The invention relates to a transfer wheel, a transfer device and a method for transferring a strip, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum.

EP 1 985 561 A1 discloses a transfer drum with two fixation devices for retaining a sidewall strip while transferring said sidewall strip to a tire building drum. Each fixation device is provided with a plurality of suction elements which are arranged in line transverse to the longitudinal direction of the sidewall strip. The first fixation device is arranged to retain a first end of the sidewall strip. The second fixation device is positioned such that the end of the sidewall strip can be retained by said second fixation device. In EP 1 985 561 A1 it is suggested that at least one of the two fixation devices can be positioned in the circumferential direction of the transfer drum such that it can be adapted to various lengths of the sidewall strip.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A disadvantage of the transfer drum according to EP 1 985 561 A1 is that it remains undisclosed how the at least one fixation device is positioned to achieve the suggested adaptation.

It is an object of the invention to provide a transfer wheel and a method for transferring a strip, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum, wherein the transfer wheel can be modified for transferring strips of different lengths.

According to a first aspect, the invention provides a transfer wheel for transferring a strip, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum, wherein the strip has a leading end, a trailing end and a strip body extending over a strip length from the leading end to the trailing end, wherein the transfer wheel is rotatable about a wheel axis and defines a retaining area extending in a circumferential direction about said wheel axis for retaining the strip to the transfer wheel, wherein the retaining area is divided into a first end section for retaining one of the leading end and the trailing end, a second end section for retaining the other of the leading end and the trailing end, and a main section in the circumferential direction between the first end section and the second end section for supporting the strip body, wherein the transfer wheel comprises a first mounting member that defines a plurality of first mounting positions for receiving a first group of retaining segments at the first end section, wherein the first group of retaining segments comprises at least one first body retaining segment for retaining the strip body and a first end retaining segment for retaining said one of the leading end and the trailing end, wherein the first mounting member is arranged for interchangeably receiving one first body retaining segment of the at least one first body retaining segment or the first end retaining segment in each first mounting position of the plurality of first mounting positions.

The first end retaining segment can thus be received and/or mounted in any one of the available first mounting positions by interchanging it with the first body retaining segment in said one first mounting position. The first body retaining segment that is removed from said one first mounting position can be received and/or mounted in the first mounting position that was previously occupied by the first end retaining segment. Hence, the position of the first end retaining segment within the first end section can be changed and/or varied with respect to the main section. By changing the position of the first end retaining segment, the position where the leading end or the trailing end of the strip is retained can be adapted, to facilitate retaining strips of different lengths to the transfer wheel.

In a preferred embodiment the transfer wheel comprises the first group of retaining segments. It will be clear however that the retaining segments can be provided separately from the transfer wheel, i.e. as replacement parts or to adapt the transfer wheel for various ways of retaining the strip.

Based on the previous embodiment that includes the retaining segments, it is preferred that each first body retaining segment comprises at least one body retaining element for retaining the strip body to the respective first body retaining segment, wherein the first end retaining segment comprises at least one end retaining element different in operation from the at least one body retaining element for retaining said one of the leading end and the trailing end to the end retaining segment. Hence, the first end retaining segment can retain the strip in a different way than the first body retaining segments. In particular, the first end retaining segment is arranged for retaining the leading end or the trailing end of the strip more strongly, reliably and/or securely, i.e. such that the leading end or the trailing end cannot be separated from the first end retaining segment easily or without damage. In contrast, the first body retaining segments are arranged for just retaining the strip body to the transfer wheel, while relying on the first end retaining segment to securely hold the leading end or the trailing end.

More preferably, the transfer wheel comprises at least one first control member for controlling the at least one body retaining element and at least one second control member for controlling the at least one end retaining element. Hence, the body retaining elements and the end retaining element can be controlled individually from each other.

More preferably, the transfer wheel at each first mounting position comprises a first connector for operationally connecting said at least one first control member to the at least one body retaining element of the first body retaining segment and a second connector for operationally connecting said at least one second control member to the at least one end retaining element of the first end retaining segment, wherein the operational connections are made depending on which one of the first body retaining segment and the first end retaining segment is mounted to the respective first mounting position. Because each mounting position is provided with both connectors, the at least one body retaining element and the at least one end retaining element can be controlled individually by the first control member and the second control member, respectively, irrespective of the mounting position in which the at least one first body retaining segment and the first end retaining segment are mounted.

More preferably, the transfer wheel is unable to establish the operational connection between the at least one first control member and the first end retaining segment via the first connector and wherein the transfer wheel unable to establish the operational connection between the at least one second control member and the first body retaining segment via the second connector. In other words, the first connector is incompatible (directly or indirectly) with the first end retaining segment and the second connector is incompatible (directly or indirectly) with the first body retaining segment. Therefore, the first control member cannot accidentally trigger the operation of the end retaining element and the second control member cannot accidentally trigger the operation of the body retaining elements.

In one embodiment the first body retaining segment comprises at least one first input opening for operational connection with at least one first output opening associated with the first connector and wherein the first end retaining segment comprises at least one second input opening for operational connection with at least one second output opening associated with the second connector, wherein the at least one first output opening and the at least one second output opening are offset in position. Hence, the first output opening is misaligned with the at least one second input opening of the first end retaining segment when the first end retaining segment is placed in the respective first mounting position. Similarly, the second output opening associated with the second connector is misaligned with the first input opening of the first body retaining segment when the first body retaining segment is placed in the respective first mounting position.

In a further embodiment the first connector is incompatible for connection to the at least one second control member and the second connector is incompatible for connection to the at least one first control member. The first connector and the second connector may for example be different in size or the type of connection that is being made. The control members may be adapted correspondingly to mate with one of the two connectors only. For example, the control members may be pneumatic tubes with end couplings of different size or type.

In one embodiment the at least one first control member and/or the at least one second control member are pneumatic. The pneumatic control members can be connected to or provide a source of pressurized air or a partial vacuum to provide pressure or suction to the body retaining elements and/or the end retaining element.

In a preferred embodiment thereof the first end retaining segment is arranged for sealing the first connector and wherein the first body retaining segment is arranged for sealing the second connector, depending on which one of the first body retaining segment and the first end retaining segment is mounted to the respective first mounting position. The first end retaining segment can thus prevent that air leaks through the first connector when the first end retaining segment is mounted in a respective one of the mounting positions. Similarly, the first body retaining segment can prevent that air leaks through the second connector when the first body retaining segment is mounted in a respective one of the mounting positions. The connectors can thus be selectively sealed off automatically by placement of either the first body retaining segment or the first end retaining segment.

In another embodiment the at least one body retaining element is arranged for engaging the strip body in a radial direction perpendicular to the wheel axis. This serves the purpose of the at least one first body retaining segment, which is to just retain the strip to the transfer wheel. The engagement in the radial direction provides the advantage that the strip body can also be easily disengaged from the at least one body retaining element in or parallel to the radial direction without damaging the strip body.

In another embodiment the at least one body retaining element comprises a suction element and/or a needle. A suction element can effectively retain the strip body to the first body retaining segment in the radial direction, whereas the needle can prevent sliding of the strip body relative to the first body retaining segment in the circumferential direction. A combination of both types of retaining elements provides the additional advantage that the suction element can ensure that the strip body is engaged by the needles in the radial direction. The needle may be in a stationary protruding from the surface of the transfer wheel during the engagement of the strip body. Alternatively, the needle may be moved, i.e. mechanically or pneumatically, in the radial direction from a recessed position into a piercing position.

In another embodiment the at least one end retaining element is arranged for engaging said one of the leading end and the trailing end in at least one engagement direction oblique to a radial direction. This type of engagement can be less easily disengaged, as it requires a disengagement in in a non-radial direction, i.e. with at least a component in a non-radial direction. In particular, when the strip body is retained in the circumferential direction by the body retaining element(s), it will be difficult to disengage the respective end from the at least one end retaining element. Hence, the at least one end retaining element can retain the respective end more securely and/or reliably.

In another embodiment the at least one end retaining element comprises a plurality of first needles for piercing into said one of the leading end and the trailing end in a first engagement direction and a plurality of second needles for piercing into said one of the leading end and the trailing end in a second engagement direction different from the first engagement direction. By piercing the respective end in two different directions, it will be even more difficult to disengage the respective end from said end retaining elements. Hence, an unintentional release of the respective end can be prevented.

Preferably, the first engagement direction and the second engagement direction are offset over an angle of at least thirty degrees, preferably at least seventy degrees. The greater the angle, the more securely and/or reliably the respective end can be held.

In a further embodiment the first end section extends over less than one-hundred-and-eighty degrees of the transfer wheel in the circumferential direction, preferably less than seventy degrees. Hence, only a part of the circumference of the transfer wheel is actually used to receive the strip. The remaining circumference can be used for other purposes, i.e. for counter-weight.

In a further embodiment the first mounting member defines at least three first mounting positions, preferably at least six first mounting positions. The first end retaining segment can thus be exchanged with one of the at least one first body retaining segment in each one of the at least three or at least six first mounting positions, thus providing a great flexibility for receiving strips of different lengths.

In a further embodiment the first mounting member is arranged for receiving the retaining segments of the first group directly adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction in the respective first mounting positions. Hence, by interchanging the first end retaining segment with the one first body retaining segment directly adjacent to it, the position of said first end retaining segment can be moved or offset with a length equal to the dimension of said one first body retaining segment in the circumferential direction. In other words, the minimum step or interval between positions of the first end retaining segment is equal to the dimension of said one first body retaining segment in the circumferential direction. The step can for example be equal to a step in the inch size of the tire to be manufactured or a dimension related to such an inch size increment.

In a further embodiment the transfer wheel comprises a second mounting member that defines a plurality of second mounting positions for receiving a second group of retaining segments at the second end section, wherein the second group of retaining segments comprises at least one second body retaining segment for retaining the strip body and a second end retaining segment for retaining said the other of the leading end and the trailing end, wherein the second mounting member is arranged for interchangeably receiving one second body retaining segment of the at least one second body retaining segment or the second end retaining segment in each second mounting position of the plurality of second mounting positions. Hence, the positions of both the first end retaining member and the second end retaining member can be easily adapted to retain strips of different lengths. Furthermore, as each mounting member features several mounting positions, the range of lengths that can be accommodated on the transfer wheel between the first end mounting member and the second end mounting member can be increased significantly.

Preferably, the difference in angle between the first mounting position and the second mounting position which are closest to each other considered in the circumferential direction across the main section and the first mounting position and the second mounting position which are furthest away from each other considered in the circumferential direction across the main section is at least sixty degrees, preferably at least eighty degrees. Hence, the length of the strip that can be effectively retained between the first end retaining member and the second end retaining member in the aforementioned extreme positions can be varied with an arc length equal to the difference in angle.

In another embodiment the first end section and the second end section are spaced apart by the main section in the circumferential direction over at least one-hundred degrees, preferably at least one-hundred-and-twenty degrees. The spacing between the first end section and the second end section defines the minimum length of the strip body that can be retained along the main section of the retaining area.

In another embodiment the first end section and the second end section are located in diametrically opposite positions to each other. Hence, the first end retaining segment and the second end retaining segment can be positioned diametrically opposite or substantially diametrically opposite to each other.

In another embodiment the retaining area extends over less than three-hundred degrees of the transfer wheel in the circumferential direction, preferably less than two-hundred-and-eighty degrees. Hence, only a part of the circumference of the transfer wheel is actually used to receive the strip. The remaining circumference can be used for other purposes, i.e. for counter-weight. Preferably, the transfer wheel further comprises a counter-weight section diametrically opposite to the retaining area for at least partially balancing the transfer wheel about the wheel axis. In particular, the counter-weight section has the same or substantially the same weight as the group of retaining segments diametrically opposite to the counter-weight section. More preferably, the transfer wheel comprises a plurality of counter-weight elements which are selectively combinable into a variable weight counter-weight. The individual counter-weight elements can be manufactured more easily in comparison to a single body counter-weight.

In a further embodiment the transfer wheel comprises a plurality of further mounting members, distributed around the transfer wheel in the circumferential direction, wherein the first mounting member is interchangeable with any one of the further mounting members. This can provide even greater flexibility for positioning, placing and/or mounting the end retaining segments.

According to a second aspect, the invention provides a transfer device comprising the transfer wheel according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the transfer device further comprises a base for supporting the transfer wheel and a drive for moving the transfer wheel relative to the base in an application direction perpendicular to the wheel axis, wherein the transfer device further comprises an overload protection mechanism that enables the transfer wheel to move with respect to the base in a retraction direction opposite to the application direction irrespective of the drive. The overload protection mechanism may become active when the transfer wheel is pressed against the tire building drum with an excessive force or when an irregularity on the transfer wheel or on the tire building drum causes generates an excessive force between the transfer wheel and the tire building drum. The transfer wheel can then be retracted in the retraction direction regardless of whether the drive is still driving the transfer wheel in the application direction.

It will be clear that the abovementioned overload protection mechanism may be applied individually from the transfer wheel according to the invention, i.e. in combination with a conventional transfer wheel or any suitable drum-like or wheel-like element where the same forces and directions apply.

In a preferred embodiment of the transfer device, the drive is movable as a whole with respect to the base in the retraction direction, wherein the overload protection mechanism comprises a biasing member for biasing the drive with respect to the base in the application direction, wherein said biasing member allows the drive to move as a whole in the retraction direction when an excessive force is exerted on the transfer wheel. By moving the drive as a whole more in the retraction direction than the drive is moving the transfer wheel in the application direction, the net result is that the transfer wheel will be moving in the retraction direction.

More preferably, the biasing member is a pneumatic cylinder. The pneumatic cylinder can act as a dampener that absorbs the force between the transfer wheel and the tire building drum.

According to a third aspect, the invention provides a method for transferring a strip, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum using the transfer wheel according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the method comprises the step of interchanging one first body retaining segment of the at least one first body retaining segment with the first end retaining segment in one of the first mounting positions of the plurality of first mounting positions.

The method involves the practical implementation of the transfer wheel according to the first aspect of the invention and thus has the same technical advantages, which will not be repeated hereafter.

In a preferred embodiment of the method, the transfer wheel comprises a second mounting member that defines a plurality of second mounting positions for receiving a second group of retaining segments at the second end section, wherein the second group of retaining segments comprises at least one second body retaining segment for retaining the strip body and a second end retaining segment for retaining said the other of the leading end and the trailing end, wherein the second mounting member is arranged for interchangeably receiving one second body retaining segment of the at least one second body retaining segment or the second end retaining segment in each second mounting position of the plurality of second mounting positions, wherein the method further comprises the step of interchanging one second body retaining segment of the at least one second body retaining segment with the second end retaining segment in one of the second mounting positions of the plurality of second mounting positions.

The various aspects and features described and shown in the specification can be applied, individually, wherever possible. These individual aspects, in particular the aspects and features described in the attached dependent claims, can be made subject of divisional patent applications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be elucidated on the basis of an exemplary embodiment shown in the attached schematic drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a right side view of a transfer device with a transfer wheel for transferring a strip, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum according to a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows an isometric view of the transfer wheel according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 shows a right side view of the transfer wheel according to FIG. 2 ;

FIGS. 4 and 5 show, from above and below, respectively, a detail of the transfer wheel according to FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 6 shows a cross section of the transfer wheel according to the line VI-VI in FIG. 3 ;

FIG. 7 shows a cross section of the transfer wheel according to the line VII-VII in FIG. 3 ;

FIG. 8 shows a left side view of the transfer device according to FIG. 1 ; and

FIG. 9 shows a side view of an alternative transfer wheel according to a second embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1 and 8 show a transfer device 200 comprising a transfer wheel 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention. The transfer wheel 1 is used for transferring a strip S, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum D.

The transfer device 200 further comprises a base 201 for supporting the transfer wheel 1 relative to the tire building drum D and a drive 202 for moving the transfer wheel 1 relative to the base 201 in an application direction T towards the tire building drum D. Preferably, the transfer device 200 comprises a seat 210 for carrying the transfer wheel 201 and one or more guide elements 211, 212, i.e. slide shoes, between the seat 210 and the base 201 that allow transfer wheel 1 to move back and forth with respect to the base 201 in the application direction T. In this exemplary embodiment, the drive 202 is a linear drive, preferably one that is extendable in the application direction T and that is operationally connected to the seat 210 to push or pull the seat 210, and the transfer wheel 1 supported thereon, along in the application direction T.

The strip S has a leading end LE, a trailing end TE and a strip body B extending from the leading end LE to the trailing end TE. The strip S is typically made from an elastomeric material, i.e. rubber.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3 , the transfer wheel 1 is rotatable about a wheel axis A. The transfer wheel 1 has a radial direction R perpendicular to said wheel axis A. The transfer wheel 1 is arranged to be driven by a rotational drive (not shown). The transfer wheel 1 has a circumferential surface 10 extending concentrically about the wheel axis A in a circumferential direction C. The transfer wheel 1 defines a retaining area G extending in a circumferential direction C about said wheel axis A for retaining the strip S to the transfer wheel 1. In this exemplary embodiment, the retaining area G is divided into a first end section E1 for retaining the leading end LE, a second end section E2 for retaining the trailing end TE, and a main section M that is located in the circumferential direction C between the first end section E1 and the second end section E2 for retaining the strip body B.

The transfer wheel 1 comprises a wheel body 11 and a plurality of mounting members 21-26 distributed around the wheel body 11 for receiving a plurality of retaining segments 3-7. The plurality of retaining segments 3-7 form and/or define at least a part of the circumferential surface 10 of the transfer wheel 10 and are adapted for retaining the strip S to the circumferential surface 10 along the retaining area G. Preferably, each mounting member 21-26 is arranged for receiving a plurality of retaining segments 3-7, in this example eight per mounting member 21-26. Alternatively, only a single mounting member is provided that is arranged to hold all of the retaining segments 3-7. In yet a further alternative embodiment, one or more of the mounting members 21-26 or the single mounting member may be integral with the wheel body 11.

Note that the retaining segments 3-7 can be mounted to and removed from the mounting member(s) 21-26 in a manner explained in more detail hereafter and thus do not necessarily form part of the transfer wheel 1. The transfer wheel 1 may however be offered with the retaining segments 3-7 already included and/or mounted to the transfer wheel 1.

One or more of the retaining segments is preferably provided with a relatively soft outer surface that can easily adapt to the shape of the strip S and/or irregularities in said strip S. The soft, resiliently deformable outer surface may closely conform to the material, thereby dispersing air and preventing the formation of air pockets. In particular, the retaining segments may be provided with a polyurethane coating or silicone rubber coating that is glued to or vulcanized onto the main body of the retaining segments to form the radially outer surface thereof. Alternatively, a coating may be used that prevents sticking of the tacky strip S to the retaining segments, i.e. with a coating comprising PTFE or Teflon.

As shown in more detail in FIG. 3 , the plurality of mounting members 21-26 comprises a first mounting member 21 that forms and/or defines a plurality of first mounting positions P1-P8, in this example eight first mounting positions P1-P8, for receiving a first group of retaining segments 3, 4 at the first end section E1. The plurality of mounting members 21-26 further comprises a second mounting member 22 that forms and/or defines a plurality of second mounting positions P9-P16, in this example eight second mounting positions P9-P16, for receiving a second group of retaining segments 5, 6. The plurality of mounting members 21-26 further comprises a number of further mounting members 23-26, each forming and/or defining a plurality of further mounting positions for receiving a plurality of retaining segments 7.

The first mounting member 21 is arranged for receiving the retaining segments 3, 4 of the first group directly adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction C in the respective first mounting positions P1-P8. Similarly, the second mounting member 22 is arranged for receiving the retaining segments 5, 6 of the second group directly adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction C in the respective first mounting positions P9-P16.

The first group of retaining segments 3, 4 comprises a plurality of first body retaining segments 3 for retaining the strip body B and a first end retaining segment 4 for retaining the leading end LE of the strip S.

As best seen in FIG. 4 , each first body retaining segment 3 comprises a segment body 30 and at least one body retaining element 31, 32 arranged at the radially outward facing side of the segment body 30 for retaining the strip body B to the respective first body retaining segment 3. The segment body 30 is suitably shaped and/or dimensioned to fit into one of the mounting positions P1-P8 of the first mounting member 21.

In this exemplary embodiment, each first body retaining segment 3 comprises two types of body retaining elements 31, 32 which are different from each other in the way that they engage the strip body B. In particular, the first type is a suction element 31 for retaining the strip body B to the respective first body retaining segment 3 through suction. Alternatively, an under-pressure suction element 31 may be generated in the suction element 31 by means of a Venturi element that is operationally connected to a source of compressed air.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the first body retaining segment 3 comprises a first input opening 37 for operationally connecting the suction element 31 to a source of partial vacuum or compressed air at or near the transfer wheel 1. The first input opening 37 is preferably located at a side of the segment body 30 that is in direct contact with surface of the first mounting member 21 having a corresponding first output opening 27.

The second type is a needle 32. The first body retaining segment 3 as shown in FIG. 4 has two needles 32, one on either side of the suction element 31. Both types of body retaining elements 31, 32 are arranged for engaging the strip body B in the radial direction R. The suction element 31 can effectively pull the strip body B onto the needles 32 and simultaneously prevent retraction of the strip body B from the suction element 31 in the radial direction R. The needles 32 can prevent shifting of the strip body B in the circumferential direction C. In this example, the needles 32 are received in threaded bores and are positioned prior to operation of the transfer wheel by screwing or unscrewing their base relative to the thread in the bore. Alternatively, the needles 32 may be permanently fixed in place.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the first body retaining segment 3 is provided with two mounting pins 39 that fit in corresponding mounting holes 20 (see FIG. 4 ) of a respective one of the mounting positions P1-P8. The mounting pins 39 ensure that the first body retaining segment 3 is properly aligned with the respective mounting position P1-P8. The mounting pin 39 may also be a threaded fastener, i.e. a bolt, and the mounting hole 20 may be a threaded bore to receive the threaded fastener. Hence, the first body retaining segment 3 can be tightly secured in its respective mounting position P1-P8.

The first end retaining segment 4, like the first body retaining segment 3, comprises a segment body 40 that is suitably shaped and/or dimensioned to fit into one of the mounting positions P1-P8 of the first mounting member 21. In particular, the shape of the segment body 40 of the first end retaining segment 4 is identical or similar to the shape of the segment body 30 of the first body retaining segments 3 so that they fit interchangeably in the same mounting positions P1-P8. As shown in FIG. 5 , the first end retaining segment 4 is provided with mounting pins 49 similar to and in the same position as the mounting pins 39 of the first body retaining segments 3. Hence, the mounting pins 49 of the first end retaining segment 4 can be aligned with and fitted into the mounting holes 20 of a respective one of the mounting positions P1-P8 in the same way as the first body retaining segments 3, thus providing the interchangeability.

The first end retaining segment 4 differs from the previously discussed first body retaining segments 3 in that, instead of the body retaining elements 31, 32, the first end retaining segment 4 comprises at least one end retaining element 41, 42 that is different in operation or in the way in which the strip S is engaged from the body retaining elements 31, 32. In other words, the at least one end retaining element 41, 42 is dedicated for retaining the leading end LE.

In this particular embodiment, as best seen in FIG. 4 , the at least one end retaining element 41, 42 comprises a plurality of first needles 41 for piercing into the leading end LE in a first engagement direction N1 and a plurality of second needles 42 for piercing into said leading end LE in a second engagement direction N2 different from the first engagement direction N1. Said engagement directions N1, N2 are oblique to the radial direction R at the mounting position P1-P8 of the respective first end retaining segment 4. The first engagement direction N1 and the second engagement direction N2 are preferably offset over an angle of at least thirty degrees, preferably at least seventy degrees. Hence, the first needles 41 and the second needles 42 are arranged in a cross-wise configuration. Preferably, the first needles 41 and the second needles 42 alternate with each other.

As such, the retaining elements 41, 42 are arranged for engaging the leading end LE in at least one engagement direction N1, N2 oblique to a radial direction R. The oppositely angled needles 41, 42 ensure that the leading end LE, once pierced, cannot be easily removed from the first end retaining segment 4, at least not without damaging the strip S. The first needles 41 and the second needles 42 are movable in their respective engagement direction N1, N2 between a piercing position protruding at least partially outside of the segment body 40 and a release position retracted inside the segment body 40.

As best seen in the cross section of FIG. 7 , each of the needles 41, 42 is received in a respective bore or chamber 43, 44 in the segment body 40 and acts like a plunger that can be driven and retracted pneumatically through the bore or chamber 43, 44 in the respective engagement direction N1, N2. Each bore or chamber 43, 44 is operationally connected to a pneumatic source to actuate the respective needle 41, 42.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the first end retaining segment 4 comprises a plurality of second input openings 48 for operationally connecting the bores or chambers 43, 44 to a source of partial vacuum or compressed air at or near the transfer wheel 1. The second input openings 48 are preferably located at a side of the segment body 40 that is in direct contact with a surface of the first mounting member 21 having a plurality of corresponding second output openings 28 at the first mounting member 21. The first mounting member 21 is provided with one or more air channels 29 that are arranged in air communication with the plurality of second output openings 28. Alternatively, one or more air channels may be provided in the first end retaining segment 4 to connect several or all of the bores or chambers 43, 44 to a single second input opening 48.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the first mounting member 21 is arranged for interchangeably receiving one first body retaining segment 3 of the plurality of first body retaining segments 3 or the first end retaining segment 4 in each first mounting position P1-P8 of the plurality of first mounting positions P1-P8. In the example as shown, the first body retaining segment 3 in the second mounting position P2 is interchanged with the first end retaining segment 4 in the sixth mounting position P6. The first mounting member 21 is arranged for receiving and releasing said one first body retaining segment 3 and said first end retaining segment 4 in the radial direction R. Alternatively, the retaining segments 3, 4 may be slid out of their respective mounting positions P1-P8 in an axial direction, the radial direction R or a combination thereof.

As schematically shown in FIGS. 3, 6 and 7 , the transfer wheel 1 comprises at least one first control member 91 for controlling the body retaining elements 31, of the first body retaining segments 3. The transfer wheel 1 further comprises at least one second control member 92 for controlling the at least one end retaining element 41 of the first end retaining segment 4. The body retaining elements 31, 32 need to be controlled independently from the end retaining element 41, for example when the strip body B is to be released earlier than the leading end LE. However, because of the interchangeability of the retaining segments 3, 4, the mounting position P1-P8 of the first end retaining segment is unknown. Hence, to enable the aforementioned independent control, the transfer wheel (1, 101) comprises, at each first mounting position P1-P8, a first connector 81 for operationally connecting the at least one first control member 91 to the at least one body retaining element 31, 32 of the first body retaining segment 3 and a second connector 82 for operationally connecting said at least one second control member 92 to the at least one end retaining element 41 of the first end retaining segment 4. Hence, depending on which one of the first body retaining segment 3 and the first end retaining segment 4 is mounted to the respective first mounting position P1-P8, connection can be made between either the first control member 91 and the first connector 81 or the second control member 92 and the second connector 82.

As best seen in FIG. 6 , the first connector 81 is arranged to be in communication with the first output opening 27 of the first mounting member 21. As best seen in FIG. 7 , the second connector 82 is arranged to be in communication with the one or more air channels 29 in the first mounting member 21, and is therefore indirectly in communication with each of the second output openings 28 of the first mounting member 21.

The transfer wheel 1 is unable to establish the operational connection between the first control member 91 and the first end retaining segment 4 via the first connector 81. On the other hand, the transfer wheel 1 unable to establish the operational connection between the second control member 92 and the first body retaining segment 3 via the second connector 92. In particular, the first connector 81 is designed so as to be incompatible (directly or indirectly) for connection with first end retaining segment 4 and the second connector 82 is designed so as to be incompatible (directly or indirectly) for connection with first body retaining segment 3. The incompatibility can be obtained by offsetting the positions of the connectors 81, 82 so that the first output opening associated with the first connector 81 is misaligned with the second input opening 48 of the first end retaining segment 4 and so that the second output opening 28 associated with the second connector 82 is misaligned with the first input opening 37 of the first body retaining segment 3.

More preferably, to prevent that the second control member 92 unintentionally controls the body retaining elements 31, 32 of the first body retaining segment 3, the segment body 30 of the first body retaining segment 3 is adapted such that the segment body 30 seals the second output opening 28 of the first mounting member 21 in a respective one of the first mounting positions P1-P8 where the first body retaining segment 3 is mounted. Similarly, the segment body 40 of the first end retaining segment 4 is adapted such that the segment body 40 seals the first output opening 27 of the first mounting member 21 in a respective one of the first mounting positions P1-P8 where the first end retaining segment 4 is mounted.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , the control members 91, 92 may be arrangement of pneumatic tubes, hoses and/or valve blocks for communicating air between a source and the respective connector 81, 82. In FIGS. 1 and 3 , only a few pneumatic tubes are shown for reasons of clarity. In practice, every connector 81, 82 will be operationally connected to a source via a respective one of the control members 91, 92.

Alternatively, the control members 91, 92 may be a source of vacuum or compressed air that is directly connected to the respective connector 81, 82. In yet another alternative embodiment, one or more of the retaining elements 31, 32, 41 may be actuated through a different medium, i.e. hydraulically or electrically, in which case a suitable control members and a suitable connector can be applied.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the second mounting member forms and/or defines a plurality of second mounting positions P9-P16 for receiving a second group of retaining segments 5, 6 at the second end section E2. The second group of retaining segments 5, 6 comprises a plurality of second body retaining segments 5 for retaining the strip body B and a second end retaining segment 6 for retaining said the trailing end TE. The second body retaining segments 5 may be similar or identical to the first body retaining segment 3. The second end retaining segment 6 may be similar or identical to the first end retaining segment 4. The second mounting member 22 is arranged for interchangeably receiving one second body retaining segment 5 of the plurality of first body retaining segments 5 or the second end retaining segment 6 in each second mounting position P9-P16 of the plurality of second mounting positions P9-P16. For this purpose, the second mounting member 22 comprises the same or substantially the same connection features as the first mounting member 21. These features will therefore not be discussed in more detail hereafter.

The further mounting members 23-26 define a plurality of mounting positions for receiving further retaining segments 7. The further retaining segments 7 may be similar or identical to the first body retaining segments 3. Alternatively, the further retaining segments 7 may different from said first body retaining segments 3 to avoid confusion between the various retaining segments 3-7. In yet a further alternative embodiment, the further retaining segments 7 may be permanently fixed to their respective further mounting member 23-26.

The further mounting members 23-26 differ from the first mounting member 21 and the second mounting member in that they are not suitable for establishing a connection between the second control members 92 and the second input openings 48 of the first end retaining segment 4. Hence, although the first end retaining segment 4 may be fitted in any one of the mounting positions defined by the further mounting members 23-26, said retaining segment 4 will not be able to function in any one of said mounting positions. Consequently, only the first mounting positions P1-P8 of the first mounting member 21 and the second mounting positions P9-P16 of the second mounting member 22 can be used to interchange the positions of the first end retaining segment 4 and the second end retaining segment 6, respectively, with a respective one of the body retaining segments 3, 5, 7.

Alternatively, the main section M is formed by a single support segment or a plurality of support segments, similar to the mounting member but without mounting positions. Hence, the sole purpose of said support segment(s) is to support the strip body B between the respective end sections E1, E2.

Note that the difference in angle between the first mounting position P1 and the second mounting position P9 which are closest to each other considered in the circumferential direction C across the main section M and the first mounting position P8 and the second mounting position P16 which are furthest away from each other considered in the circumferential direction C across the main section M is at least sixty degrees, preferably at least eighty degrees. Hence, the length of the strip S can be varied with a length difference equal to the arc length of the circumferential surface 10 within of said angle of difference.

As best seen in FIG. 3 , the first end section E1 extends over less than one-hundred-and-eighty degrees of the transfer wheel 1 in the circumferential direction C, preferably less than seventy degrees. In this particular example, the first end section E1 spans approximately forty-five degrees. The first end section E1 and the second end section E2 are spaced apart by the main section M in the circumferential direction C over at least one-hundred degrees, preferably at least one-hundred-and-twenty degrees. Preferably, the first end section E1 and the second end section E2 are located diametrically opposite positions to each other.

It can further be observed that the retaining area G extends over less than three-hundred degrees of the transfer wheel 1 in the circumferential direction C, preferably less than two-hundred-and-eighty degrees. The transfer wheel 1 comprises a counter-weight section W in the remaining or unused circumference of the transfer wheel 1, preferably diametrically opposite to the retaining area G. The counter-weight section W may at least partially compensate for the extra weight of the strip S at the retaining area G.

As best seen in FIGS. 2 and 4 , the transfer wheel 1 comprises a plurality of counter-weight elements W1-W9 which are selectively combinable into a variable weight counter-weight. The counter-weight elements W1-W9 are preferably plate-like elements that can be sandwiched together to form the counter-weight.

As shown in FIG. 8 , the transfer device 200 further comprises an overload protection mechanism 203 that enables the transfer wheel 1 to move with respect to the base 70 in a retraction direction V opposite to the application direction T irrespective of the drive 202.

In particular, the drive 202 as a whole is movable with respect to the base 201 in the retraction direction V. The overload protection mechanism 203 comprises a biasing member 230 that—under normal load conditions—biases the drive 202 with respect to the base 201 in the application direction T. As a result, the transfer wheel 1 is biased to move into contact with the tire building drum D in said application direction T. However, when an excessive force is exerted on the transfer wheel 1, the said biasing member 230 allows the drive 202 to move as a whole against the bias of the biasing member 230 in the retraction direction V.

In this exemplary embodiment the biasing member 230 is a pneumatic cylinder that can act as a dampener or absorber of the excessive load. Preferably, the overload protection mechanism 203 comprises a lever 231 that at one end is hingably coupled to the base 201 and at the other end to the drive 202. The biasing member 230 is coupled at one end to the base 201 and at the other end to a position on the lever 231 spaced apart from the coupling of the lever 231 to the base 201 and the drive 202 to exert a biasing force on the lever 231 as a moment of force.

Alternatively, the biasing member 230 can be connected to the drive 202 with the use of a more complex linkage, to keep the motion more parallel. In yet a further alternative embodiment, the biasing member 230 can be coupled directly to the drive 202, i.e. in line with said drive 202 in the application direction T.

FIG. 9 shows an alternative transfer wheel 101 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention, which differs from the previously discussed transfer wheel 1 in that the retaining area extends around the entire circumference of the transfer wheel 101. Hence, in contrast to the previous embodiment there is no counter-weight section.

The alternative transfer wheel 101 further comprises a first mounting member 121 and a second mounting member 122 similar to the previously described first mounting member 21 and second mounting member 22 for receiving the interchangeable retaining segments 3, 4, 5, 6. However, by way of example, the alternative transfer wheel 101 features alternative further mounting members 123-128 with integrated retaining elements 131, 132 rather than mountable retaining segments. This is why the alternative transfer wheel 101 can be relatively light-weight, which also reduces the need for the counter-weight section.

A method for transferring the strip S to the tire building drum D using the aforementioned transfer wheel 1, 101 is described briefly hereafter with reference to FIGS. 1-9 .

The method comprises the step of interchanging one first body retaining segment 3 of the plurality of first body retaining segments 3 with the first end retaining segment 4 in one of the first mounting positions P1-P8 of the plurality of first mounting positions P1-P8.

Optionally, the method further comprises the step of interchanging one second body retaining segment 5 of the plurality of second body retaining segments 5 with the second end retaining segment 6 in one of the second mounting positions P9-P16 of the plurality of second mounting positions P9-P16.

By changing the position of the first end retaining segment 4 and/or the second end retaining segment 6, the position where the leading end LE and/or the trailing end TE of the strip S is retained can be adapted, to facilitate retaining strips S of different lengths to the transfer wheel 1, 101.

It is to be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiments and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention. From the above discussion, many variations will be apparent to one skilled in the art that would yet be encompassed by the scope of the present invention.

For example, more than one first end retaining segment 4 may be used in the first end retaining area E1, i.e. to retain the leading end LE over a larger surface area and/or to increase the flexibility of the placement of said multiple first end retaining segments 4. Similarly, more than one second end retaining segment 6 can be provided at the send end retaining area E2.

Moreover, the first mounting member 21, 121 and the second mounting member 22, 122 themselves may be interchangeably received on and/or mounted to the wheel body 11 of the transfer wheel 1, 101 to allow for them to be exchanged with any one of the further mounting members 23-26, 123-128 to provide even greater flexibility for positioning, placing and/or mounting the end retaining segments 4, 6. For example, in FIG. 1 , the second mounting member 22 may be interchanged with any one of the further mounting members 25, 26 on either side of the current position as shown.

In summary, the invention relates to a transfer wheel 1, 101, a transfer device 200 and a method for transferring a strip S, in particular a run-flat reinforcement strip or a sidewall strip, to a tire building drum D, wherein the transfer wheel 1, 101 defines a retaining area G that is divided into a first end section E1 for retaining the leading end LE, a second end section E2 for retaining the trailing end TE and a main section M for supporting the strip body B, wherein the transfer wheel 1, 101 comprises a first mounting member 21 that defines first mounting positions P1-P8 for receiving a first group of retaining segments 3, 4 at the first end section E1, wherein the first group of retaining segments 3, 4 comprises first body retaining segments 3 for retaining the strip body B and a first end retaining segment 4 for retaining the leading end LE, wherein the first mounting member 21 is arranged for interchangeably receiving one first body retaining segment 3 or the first end retaining segment 4 in each first mounting position P1-P8.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   1 transfer wheel -   10 circumferential surface -   11 wheel body -   20 mounting hole -   21 first mounting member -   22 second mounting member -   23-26 further mounting members -   27 first output opening -   28 second output opening -   29 air channel -   3 first body retaining segment -   30 segment body -   31 suction element -   32 needle -   37 first input opening -   39 mounting pin -   4 first end retaining segment -   40 segment body -   41 first needle -   42 second needle -   43 bore or chamber -   44 bore or chamber -   48 second input opening -   49 mounting pin -   5 second body retaining segment -   6 second end retaining segment -   7 further retaining segment -   81 first connector -   82 second connector -   91 first control member -   92 second control member -   101 alternative transfer wheel -   121 first mounting member -   122 second mounting member -   123-128 further mounting members -   131 suction element -   132 needle -   200 transfer device -   201 base -   210 seat -   211 guide element -   212 guide element -   202 drive -   203 overload protection mechanism -   230 biasing member -   A wheel axis -   B strip body -   C circumferential direction -   D tire building drum -   E1 first end section -   E2 second end section -   G retaining area -   LE leading end -   M main section -   N1 first engagement direction -   N2 second engagement direction -   P1-P8 first mounting positions -   P9-P16 second mounting positions -   S strip -   TE trailing end 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A transfer wheel for transferring a strip to a tire building drum, wherein the strip has a leading end, a trailing end and a strip body extending from the leading end to the trailing end, wherein the transfer wheel is rotatable about a wheel axis and defines a retaining area extending in a circumferential direction about said wheel axis for retaining the strip to the transfer wheel, wherein the retaining area is divided into a first end section for retaining one of the leading end and the trailing end, a second end section for retaining the other of the leading end and the trailing end, and a main section in the circumferential direction between the first end section and the second end section for supporting the strip body, wherein the transfer wheel comprises a first group of retaining segments, a first mounting member that defines a plurality of first mounting positions for receiving the first group of retaining segments at the first end section, wherein the first group of retaining segments comprises at least one first body retaining segment with at least one body retaining element for retaining the strip body to the respective first body retaining segment and a first end retaining segment with at least one end retaining element different in operation from the at least one body retaining element for retaining said one of the leading end and the trailing end to the first end retaining segment, wherein the first mounting member is arranged for interchangeably receiving one first body retaining segment of the at least one first body retaining segment or the first end retaining segment in each first mounting position of the plurality of first mounting positions, wherein the transfer wheel comprises at least one first control member for controlling the at least one body retaining element and at least one second control member for controlling the at least one end retaining element, wherein the transfer wheel at each first mounting position comprises a first connector for operationally connecting said at least one first control member to the at least one body retaining element of the first body retaining segment and a second connector for operationally connecting said at least one second control member to the at least one end retaining element of the first end retaining segment, wherein the operational connections are made depending on which one of the first body retaining segment and the first end retaining segment is mounted to the respective first mounting position.
 2. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the transfer wheel is unable to establish the operational connection between the at least one first control member and the first end retaining segment via the first connector and wherein the transfer wheel is unable to establish the operational connection between the at least one second control member and the first body retaining segment via the second connector.
 3. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the first body retaining segment comprises at least one first input opening for operational connection with at least one first output opening associated with the first connector and wherein the first end retaining segment comprises at least one second input opening for operational connection with at least one second output opening associated with the second connector, wherein the at least one first output opening and the at least one second output opening are offset in position.
 4. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the first connector is incompatible for connection to the at least one second control member and the second connector is incompatible for connection to the at least one first control member.
 5. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first control member or the at least one second control member are pneumatic.
 6. The transfer wheel according to claim 5, wherein the first end retaining segment is arranged for sealing the first connector and wherein the first body retaining segment is arranged for sealing the second connector, depending on which one of the first body retaining segment and the first end retaining segment is mounted to the respective first mounting position.
 7. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the at least one body retaining element is arranged for engaging the strip body in a radial direction perpendicular to the wheel axis.
 8. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the at least one body retaining element comprises a suction element or a needle.
 9. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the at least one end retaining element is arranged for engaging said one of the leading end and the trailing end in at least one engagement direction oblique to a radial direction.
 10. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the at least one end retaining element comprises a plurality of first needles for piercing into said one of the leading end and the trailing end in a first engagement direction and a plurality of second needles for piercing into said one of the leading end and the trailing end in a second engagement direction different from the first engagement direction.
 11. The transfer wheel according to claim 10, wherein the first engagement direction and the second engagement direction are offset over an angle of at least thirty degrees.
 12. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the first end section extends over less than one-hundred-and-eighty degrees of the transfer wheel in the circumferential direction.
 13. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the first mounting member defines at least three first mounting positions.
 14. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the first mounting member is arranged for receiving the retaining segments of the first group directly adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction in the respective first mounting positions.
 15. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the transfer wheel comprises a second mounting member that defines a plurality of second mounting positions for receiving a second group of retaining segments at the second end section, wherein the second group of retaining segments comprises at least one second body retaining segment for retaining the strip body and a second end retaining segment for retaining said the other of the leading end and the trailing end, wherein the second mounting member is arranged for interchangeably receiving one second body retaining segment of the at least one second body retaining segment or the second end retaining segment in each second mounting position of the plurality of second mounting positions.
 16. The transfer wheel according to claim 15, wherein the difference in angle between the first mounting position and the second mounting position which are closest to each other considered in the circumferential direction across the main section and the first mounting position and the second mounting position which are furthest away from each other considered in the circumferential direction across the main section is at least sixty degrees.
 17. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the first end section and the second end section are spaced apart by the main section in the circumferential direction over at least one-hundred degrees.
 18. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the first end section and the second end section are located in diametrically opposite positions to each other.
 19. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the retaining area extends over less than three-hundred degrees of the transfer wheel in the circumferential direction.
 20. The transfer wheel according to claim 19, wherein the transfer wheel further comprises a counter-weight section diametrically opposite to the retaining area for at least partially balancing the transfer wheel about the wheel axis.
 21. The transfer wheel according to claim 20, wherein the transfer wheel comprises a plurality of counter-weight elements which are selectively combinable into a variable weight counter-weight.
 22. The transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the transfer wheel comprises a plurality of further mounting members, distributed around the transfer wheel in the circumferential direction, wherein the first mounting member is interchangeable with any one of the further mounting members.
 23. A transfer device comprising the transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the transfer device further comprises a base for supporting the transfer wheel and a drive for moving the transfer wheel relative to the base in an application direction perpendicular to the wheel axis, wherein the transfer device further comprises an overload protection mechanism that enables the transfer wheel to move with respect to the base in a retraction direction opposite to the application direction irrespective of the drive.
 24. The transfer device according to claim 23, wherein the drive as a whole is movable with respect to the base in the retraction direction, wherein the overload protection mechanism comprises a biasing member for biasing the drive with respect to the base in the application direction, wherein said biasing member allows the drive to move as a whole in the retraction direction when an excessive force is exerted on the transfer wheel.
 25. The transfer device according to claim 24, wherein the biasing member is a pneumatic cylinder.
 26. A method for transferring a strip to a tire building drum using the transfer wheel according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises the step of interchanging one first body retaining segment of the at least one first body retaining segment with the first end retaining segment in one of the first mounting positions of the plurality of first mounting positions.
 27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the transfer wheel comprises a second mounting member that defines a plurality of second mounting positions for receiving a second group of retaining segments at the second end section, wherein the second group of retaining segments comprises at least one second body retaining segment for retaining the strip body and a second end retaining segment for retaining said the other of the leading end and the trailing end, wherein the second mounting member is arranged for interchangeably receiving one second body retaining segment of the at least one second body retaining segment or the second end retaining segment in each second mounting position of the plurality of second mounting positions, wherein the method further comprises the step of interchanging one second body retaining segment of the at least one second body retaining segment with the second end retaining segment in one of the second mounting positions of the plurality of second mounting positions. 